Henman beats British rival Rusedski

Henman's win was his third over Greg Rusedski

T Henman (GB) bt G Rusedski (GB)
6-2 7-6 (7-4)

Tim Henman has won the all-British battle at the first round of the AAPT Championship, beating Greg Rusedski 6-2 7-6 in Adelaide.

The match was the first between the pair for 17 months - Henman's win sees him take a 3-2 lead in their head-to-head meetings.

Some days at practice, I could go out and beat anybody, but then there's days where I could go out and lose to my grandmother

  Greg Rusedski

The world number 10 dominated the first set, building on a break of serve in the opening game.

Rusedski improved in the second set but crucially faltered in the tie-break, double faulting three times to hand Henman victory.

The win will help Henman in his preparations for the upcoming Australian Open.

"I was really pleased with my performance and with every aspect of my game," he said afterwards.

"I thought I played well in the heat. It makes the conditions fast and that suits me."

Henman next faces American Jeff Tarango, who enjoyed a 6-3 7-6 win over Germany's Michael Kohlmann.

Greg Rusedski is still trying to find form

After the match, Rusedski admitted he is still playing inconsistently.

"Some days at practice, I could go out and beat anybody, but then there's days where I could go out and lose to my grandmother," he said.

"It's like almost having to start again, which can be humiliating, it can be tough."

Rusedski will at least take some comfort from his improved form as he and new coach Pat Cash aim to rebuild his shattered confidence going into the new season.

"It's not automatic and that's why he (Cash) says realistically it will take three months (for signs of success)," Rusedski added.

I have to expect to take some losses and wait for the good times."